This morning, James dropped a bombshell on his wife, Emma, as they sat at their cluttered kitchen table in their cosy Bristol flat overlooking the harbourside, where the hum of weekend markets usually lifted Emma’s spirits. “We’re off to Tom and Sarah’s place this Saturday evening,” he announced casually, scrolling through his phone. It wasn’t a question or even a suggestion—just a statement, as if it were already set in stone.
Emma froze, her mug of Earl Grey halfway to her lips. She set it down gently, trying to mask the flicker of annoyance bubbling inside. Did he even care if she had plans? Why did he never ask her opinion? Tom, his colleague from the office, and Sarah were practically strangers to her. “We’ve been meaning to visit them for ages,” James added, eyes glued to his screen, oblivious to her reaction.
– Who’s this ‘we’? Emma raised an eyebrow. I barely know them.
– Perfect chance to get acquainted, then, James replied, glancing up with a stern look. You weren’t planning anything important, were you?
Emma’s jaw tightened, but she bit her tongue. Truth be told, she hadn’t made any grand plans for Saturday. Still, being informed like this stung. Tom she’d met briefly when dropping by James’s tech firm in the city centre, and Sarah? They’d exchanged polite small talk at a work Christmas do last year—something about the dreary British weather and the struggle to find a decent childminder. The conversation had fizzled out quickly.
Why visit people she barely knew? She glanced at James, who was back to his phone, radiating certainty that the matter was settled. For a moment, she toyed with refusing outright. But then she sighed. *He’s made up his mind. No point fighting it.* Besides, maybe it wasn’t the worst idea. Their life in Bristol had become a monotonous blur—work, looking after their daughter, Lily, and quiet nights in front of the telly. With nursery–
waiting lists in Bristol stretching months, Emma relied heavily on her mum for help with Lily. A change of scenery might do them good.
– Fine, Emma muttered, sipping her tea. I’ll check if Gran can watch Lily.
– Already sorted, James said, not looking up. She’s happy to come early, so we’ve got time to get ready.
– How thoughtful of you, Emma said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. Decided everything for me, even the childcare.
James just shrugged, clearly uninterested in engaging. Emma took another sip, swallowing her frustration. The idea of an evening in someone else’s home felt daunting, but it was a rare chance to escape their routine. Lately, their days had merged into a dull cycle of responsibilities. Maybe this visit would shake things up. *Gran loves spoiling Lily anyway,* she thought, picturing her mum fussing over her granddaughter with biscuits and bedtime stories.
– So, what’s this evening about? Emma asked, setting her mug down.
– Just a friendly catch-up, James replied, surprised by her question. Tom’s a sound mate. I reckon you and Sarah will get on like a house on fire.
Emma gave a noncommittal hum. She wasn’t convinced but figured the night might not be a total disaster. At least they’d get out of the house together.